Ayi Mohammed, Chairman of Ikhon Allah Academy, speaking exclusively to Footy-Africa expressed pride in highly-rated AIK winger Zadok Yohanna earning his maiden senior international call-up after Nigeria head coach Eric Chelle has named a 26-man squad for the upcoming Unity Cup.
“We are very happy with his development and what he is doing at the moment, especially considering he has spent less than nine months in Europe,” Mohammed exclusively told Footy-Africa. “To receive a national team invitation in such a short period says a lot about his quality as a footballer and his mentality.”
“It also speaks volumes about the work we are doing here at our academy. We have produced several talented players, and Zadok Yohanna is another who has the potential to become a great player.”
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Mohammed also believes Yohanna’s elevation to the senior national team will serve as inspiration for other young players at the academy and across Nigeria.
“It sends a positive message to his former teammates here. With focus and hard work, they can achieve the same dream too,” he added.
Yohanna has become one of the most talked-about young prospects in European football, and speculation over his future is growing.
The winger has already attracted interest from several major clubs, including Bayer Leverkusen, Chelsea, RB Leipzig, and most recently Turkish Süper Lig side Trabzonspor.
According to Mohammed, a decision on the teenager’s next move could come sooner rather than later.
“Yes, several clubs have shown interest in the player and have contacted his club. That is because his potential is huge, and we are delighted with his development,” he concluded.
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The squad, unveiled on Wednesday, also includes new faces Arthur Okonkwo and Owen Oseni, but Yohanna’s inclusion has drawn particular attention following his remarkable rise in European football.
The 18-year-old winger has impressed since joining Swedish side AIK less than nine months ago from Ikhon Allah Academy in Nigeria, with his performances quickly establishing him as one of the brightest emerging talents in Scandinavia.
The Unity Cup will serve as an important tournament for fringe players to impress the Super Eagles Head Coach Eric Chelle who is building a team towards future competitions.
